The African National Congress on Tuesday welcomed the results of an opinion poll which indicated an increase in President Jacob Zuma's approval rating.

"The independent survey...has shown his (Zuma's) approval rating in Gauteng jumping from 47 to 57 percent; in Soweto from 50 to 70 percent; in East London from 47 to 71 percent; Bloemfontein from 48 to 65 percent; Cape Town from 23 to 24 percent," said ANC spokesman Brian Sokutu in a statement.

The survey, conducted by TNS Research Surveys, was conducted in even major metropolitan areas in South Africa.

TNS said earlier on Tuesday in a statement that public approval of Zuma had recovered from a "catastrophic" fall in the first quarterContinues Below ↓

TNS said Zuma's 58 percent approval rating in metro areas at the end of 2009 had dropped to 43 percent in February - the biggest drop in a president's rating in 15 years.

"His approval rating has now partially recovered to 51 percent at the end of May," TNS said.

Sokutu said Zuma's tenure thus far was marked by a determination and commitment by the ANC-led government to push back poverty in urban and rural areas.

The party said since taking over the reigns as president, Zuma has not veered from ensuring that the government implement ANC policy, particularly in the key priority areas set out in the ANC's 2009 elections manifesto.

Sokutu said another reason for the positive attitude towards Zuma was that he gave leadership during the economic recession.

"President Zuma has given leadership, which has resulted in sound management of the economy and better use of national resources, with the economy destined for growth," Sokutu said. - Sapa